Novak Djokovic looking to turn focus on tennis following visa appeal victory
- Seb Sternik
- 11 January 2022
In a social media post, the world number one said he was ‘pleased and grateful’ after winning his appeal against a decision to refuse him a visa.
Judge Anthony Kelly quashed the visa cancellation during Monday's hearing at the Federal Circuit Court of Australia. He also ordered the Australian Government to pay legal costs and release the Serbian from detention.
Following a week of drama, controversy, protests and arrests, Djokovic is now hoping to turn his attention back on the tennis court as he eyes a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam.
However, it's important to note that Australia's Minister for Immigration, Alex Hawke, still possess a personal power which could lead to the cancellation of Djokovic's visa in a process that could drag on for a number of days.
As the world awaits Hawke's decision, Djokovic is back in training ahead of the start of the 110th Australian Open.
The Serb posted a message on social media saying: "I'm pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete @AustralianOpen.
"I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans.
"For now I cannot say more but THANK YOU all for standing with me through all this and encouraging me to stay strong."
